CHENGDU— Turkish Airlines (TK) will expand its China network with the launch of scheduled flights between Istanbul Airport (IST) and Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) from November 11, 2026.
The new service will make Chengdu the airline’s fourth destination in Mainland China after Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou.
The new Istanbul–Chengdu route will operate three times weekly using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
With the addition of Chengdu, Turkish Airlines will strengthen its presence in southwestern China while creating another direct link between Türkiye and one of China’s largest commercial and population centers.
Turkish Airlines Launching Chengdu Flights
Turkish Airlines will deploy its 300-seat Boeing 787-9 on the new service, giving passengers a widebody option for travel between Europe and southwestern China.
The route will also connect Chengdu with Istanbul, where passengers can access the carrier’s extensive international network across Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and other regions.
The airline has already opened reservations for the new route, with the scheduled service beginning on November 11. The flight will operate three times per week, adding another international option for travelers based in Sichuan and surrounding areas.
The launch also expands Turkish Airlines’ reach beyond its existing China destinations. Chengdu will become an important addition to the carrier’s China strategy as it seeks to improve connectivity between Türkiye and major Chinese markets.
Chengdu Market Growth and Tourism Demand
Chengdu, the capital of Sichuan Province, is one of western China’s major economic and transportation centers. The city has more than 21 million residents and plays a significant role in trade, logistics, finance, technology, and manufacturing.
Its economic profile gives the new route relevance beyond leisure travel.
Chengdu hosts a large business community and serves as an important base for industries including electronics, technology, and biotechnology, creating potential demand from corporate travelers and international businesses.
The city also has a strong tourism profile. UNESCO recognizes Chengdu as a City of Gastronomy because of its deep connection with Sichuan cuisine, while the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding remains one of its best-known attractions.
China Network Expansion and Global Connectivity
Turkish Airlines CEO Ahmet Olmuştur described China as strategically important to the carrier and said the Chengdu launch would further strengthen its flight network in the country. The new route is expected to support commercial, cultural, and tourism links between Türkiye and China.
Turkish Airlines will also introduce promotional fares for the new service, starting at $540 in Economy Class and $1,991 in Business Class.
The airline said the fares are available through its official website, although prices may differ at sales offices and travel agencies.
The Chengdu service will give travelers in southwestern China another direct connection to Istanbul and access to Turkish Airlines’ wider global network.
It will also strengthen Chengdu Tianfu International Airport’s international connectivity while adding capacity to the growing air link between China and Türkiye.
Chengdu Travel Guide
Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport (CTU) make it easier than ever to reach Chengdu, one of China’s most rewarding destinations. Travelers can also fly with Air China (CA) on direct services from London, making the city increasingly accessible to international visitors.
Often overshadowed by Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an, Chengdu offers a unique combination of rich history, renowned Sichuan cuisine, giant pandas and a relaxed atmosphere. The capital of Sichuan Province delivers a balanced travel experience that appeals to culture enthusiasts, food lovers and wildlife fans alike.
Why Chengdu Should Be on Every China Itinerary
Chengdu has more than 2,000 years of recorded history and has evolved into one of China’s most culturally significant cities. While modern skyscrapers and shopping districts define parts of the skyline, traditional teahouses, temples, and historic neighborhoods continue to shape its identity.
Unlike many major Chinese cities known for their fast pace, Chengdu is famous for its slower lifestyle. Residents often spend hours at local teahouses, enjoying green tea, playing cards, chatting with friends or simply relaxing. This distinctive pace of life has become one of the city’s biggest attractions.
The city is also recognized globally for its culinary heritage. UNESCO designated Chengdu as one of the world’s first Cities of Gastronomy, highlighting its long-standing influence on Chinese food culture.
Top Attractions in Chengdu
Experience Traditional Teahouse Culture
A visit to People’s Park offers an authentic introduction to Chengdu’s relaxed lifestyle. He Ming Teahouse, which has served visitors for more than a century, remains one of the city’s best-known gathering places.
Guests can spend hours enjoying traditional green tea while observing local life. Arriving before 10 a.m. increases the chances of securing one of the popular bamboo seats.
Visit Tianfu Square and Chengdu’s Museums
Tianfu Square serves as the city’s central landmark and gateway to several major museums and galleries.
Many museums offer free admission, although visitors typically need to register online or scan a QR code before entering. These institutions showcase archaeological discoveries, ancient Chinese artifacts and Sichuan’s long cultural history.
Explore Kuan Zhai Alley
Kuan Zhai Alley consists of three historic lanes dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
Many former courtyard residences have been transformed into boutique shops, cafés, restaurants and teahouses while preserving their traditional architecture. The district remains one of Chengdu’s most photographed locations.
Discover Chengdu’s Historic Temples
Several important religious sites provide insight into the city’s spiritual heritage.
Popular attractions include:
- Wenshu Monastery
- Daci Temple
- Qingyang Palace
These Buddhist and Taoist landmarks offer peaceful surroundings and showcase centuries of religious architecture.
Meet China’s Giant Pandas
No trip to Chengdu is complete without visiting the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.
The conservation center is home to giant pandas at different stages of life, from playful cubs to fully grown adults. Visitors can observe pandas feeding on bamboo, climbing trees and interacting naturally within carefully designed habitats.
The easiest public transport option is Metro Line 3, followed by a shuttle bus, local bus or taxi. Tourist shuttle buses also operate directly from Chunxi Road.
Where to Stay in Chengdu
Chengdu is organized around concentric ring roads, with Tianfu Square forming the city’s central point.
Jinjiang District
Jinjiang District remains the preferred choice for many international visitors due to its excellent shopping, dining and transport connections.
Major attractions include:
- Chunxi Road shopping street
- Taikoo Li retail complex
- Numerous restaurants and nightlife venues
Popular hotels include:
- Crowne Plaza Chengdu City Centre
- The Temple House
- Sofitel Wanda Chengdu Hotel
- Shangri-La Hotel Chengdu
Qingyang District
Qingyang District offers a quieter atmosphere while remaining close to major attractions such as Tianfu Square and Kuan Zhai Alley.
The Ritz-Carlton, Chengdu is among the area’s leading luxury hotels.
Independent travelers should verify that their chosen hotel is licensed to accommodate international guests before booking, as not every hotel in China accepts foreign visitors.
What to Eat in Chengdu
Food is one of Chengdu’s biggest attractions.
Street food remains highly affordable, while family-style meals at traditional restaurants offer excellent value compared with many international destinations.
Must-Try Local Dishes
Visitors should sample several signature Sichuan specialties, including:
- Dan dan noodles
- Zhong dumplings
- Long wontons
- Lai glutinous rice balls
- Mapo tofu
Street food stalls are commonly found near temples, markets and metro stations.
Chengdu Hot Pot
Chengdu’s famous hot pot is known for its aromatic broth and bold Sichuan pepper flavor.
Those seeking a milder experience can request a yuan yang hot pot, which combines spicy broth on one side and a non-spicy broth on the other.
A dipping sauce made from sesame oil, garlic and coriander helps balance the heat.
Travelers interested in local cuisine can also join guided food tours that introduce traditional snacks, classic Sichuan dishes and famous family-run restaurants.
Best Day Trips from Chengdu
Mount Emei and Leshan Giant Buddha
Mount Emei is one of China’s most sacred Buddhist mountains and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Many visitors combine the trip with a visit to the nearby Leshan Giant Buddha, where river cruises provide panoramic views of the 71-meter-tall stone statue.
Mount Qingcheng and Dujiangyan
Mount Qingcheng is regarded as one of the birthplaces of Taoism.
Nearby, the Dujiangyan Irrigation System demonstrates ancient Chinese engineering. Built in 256 BC, it transformed Sichuan into one of China’s most productive agricultural regions and continues operating today.
Both attractions are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Essential Travel Tips Before Visiting Chengdu
China’s currency is the Renminbi (RMB), commonly known as the yuan.
Although cash is still accepted in many places, digital payments dominate everyday transactions. International visitors should set up Alipay or another supported mobile payment platform before arrival.
Public Wi-Fi often requires a Chinese mobile phone number. Travelers without one may benefit from purchasing an eSIM with mobile data before their trip.
Tipping is generally not expected in China. However, guided tours often recommend gratuities of around 100 to 150 yuan per day for tour guides.
Chengdu offers far more than giant pandas. Its combination of centuries-old history, UNESCO-recognized cuisine, traditional teahouses and modern attractions creates one of China’s most balanced travel experiences.
Whether exploring historic temples, tasting authentic Sichuan dishes or watching pandas at one of the world’s leading conservation centers, visitors can experience a different side of China that is both relaxed and culturally rich.
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